Building up his shoulder muscles while hefting himself on crutches helped Katzman bounce back from an ankle injury and inspired him to lose weight

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My turning point: When a minor ankle injury put me on crutches for a week in April 2001. I had never played a sport or tried to get in shape before. I didn't believe that I had control over my appearance. I lost a couple of pounds carrying my then 230-pound body on crutches, and my chest and shoulders looked defined for the first time — not much of a difference. But I could see it and imagined what else I could do...

My slim-down techniques: Pick something healthy and incorporate it for a lifetime. I joined a gym and showed up between two and four times a week, no matter how busy I was. I always have protein after a workout. Plus, I avoid elevators and park far from my destination.

My snacking tips: Air-popped popcorn (microwave popcorn is full of grease) with a little butter is a filling but nondamaging snack.

My exercise routine: I alternate chest, back, shoulder, and leg workouts and work my arms and abs toward the end of my routines. I do push-ups, pull-ups, and sit-ups when I can't get to the gym. I do martial arts for flexibility and endurance. Since running hurts my ankles, I walk uphill on the treadmill.

The payoff: I feel younger and fitter than in my 20s. I can play sports and can finally hike up mountains. Not many adults over 30 feel fitter than they were five to 10 years ago.

The Secret of Your Success

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